Bangladesh Bans Awami League Under Revised Anti-Terrorism Law

Dhaka – The Bangladesh government on Monday officially banned all activities of the Awami League and its affiliated organisations under a newly revised anti-terrorism law.

A gazette notification issued by the Home Ministry stated that the ban would remain in effect until the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh (ICT-BD) completes the trials of Awami League leaders and activists. “The Home Ministry today issued the gazette notification banning all activities of the Awami League, its front, associate, and brotherly organisations,” said Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd.) Jahangir Alam during a media briefing.

The action was taken under the revised Anti-Terrorism Act 2025, which now empowers the government to ban any individual or entity involved in terrorism based on reasonable grounds. Previously, the original Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009 did not allow banning organisations, only individuals.

According to officials, the charges against Awami League leaders relate to crimes against humanity committed during violent protests led by a student platform last year. The protests resulted in the deaths of hundreds and led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule on August 5.

On Saturday, the interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus and his Council of Advisers imposed a comprehensive ban on all Awami League activities, including digital and online platforms. It said the restriction would remain until the special tribunal completed the legal proceedings against the party and its leaders.

In response, the Awami League strongly rejected the interim government’s decision and vowed to continue its political activities in a “lawful and appropriate manner.”

Further tightening control, President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Sunday night signed an ordinance amending the anti-terror law. The updated ordinance bans all forms of publicity—such as media statements, social media posts, or public gatherings—in support of any individuals or organisations charged under Section 18 of the law.

The previous law referred only to “listed individuals or banned entities,” but the revised version uses broader language, targeting “any individual or entity against whom action has been taken.”

Founded in 1949, the Awami League played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s struggle for autonomy and led the 1971 Liberation War. The latest ban marks a significant turning point in the nation’s political landscape.

Team Maverick.